U.S. patent application number 14/177113 was filed with the patent office on 2014-08-28 for computer wall docking station.
This patent application is currently assigned to Dana Innovations. The applicant listed for this patent is Dana Innovations. Invention is credited to Ray Call, Kim Anthony Parker, Geoff Spencer, Scott Struthers, Ari Supran.
Application Number | 20140244882 14/177113 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40844375 |
Filed Date | 2014-08-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140244882 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Struthers; Scott ; et
al. |
August 28, 2014 |
Computer Wall Docking Station
Abstract
A wall-mounted docking station for a portable computer connects
the portable computer to a media entertainment system. The media
entertainment system can have multiple zones throughout a room
and/or a building, and can play audio, video, images, or other
media stored on the portable computer to any zone or a combination
of zones. Preferably, the docking station also provides power to
the portable computer, and could optionally provide both power and
data connectivity over a power line.
Inventors: |
Struthers; Scott; (San
Clemente, CA) ; Spencer; Geoff; (San Juan Capistrano,
CA) ; Supran; Ari; (San Clemente, CA) ; Call;
Ray; (Mission Viejo, CA) ; Parker; Kim Anthony;
(Oceanside, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dana Innovations |
San Clemente |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Dana Innovations
San Clemente
CA
|
Family ID: |
40844375 |
Appl. No.: |
14/177113 |
Filed: |
February 10, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13556878 |
Jul 24, 2012 |
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14177113 |
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12357286 |
Jan 21, 2009 |
8229501 |
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13556878 |
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11585039 |
Oct 23, 2006 |
7493142 |
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12357286 |
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10936975 |
Sep 9, 2004 |
7155214 |
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11585039 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
710/303 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04H 20/63 20130101;
G06F 1/1632 20130101; H04R 2205/021 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
710/303 |
International
Class: |
G06F 1/16 20060101
G06F001/16 |
Claims
1. A docking station for coupling a portable device to an
entertainment system, comprising: a wall-mount that receives the
device; and a power connector that provides both (a) power to the
device and (b) a data interface over a power line to the
entertainment system.
2. The docking station of claim 1, further comprising a wireless
interface to receive commands.
3. The docking station of claim 2, wherein the wireless interface
is programmable to receive commands from at least two different
media system controllers.
4. The docking station of claim 1, wherein the data interface
communicates with a media entertainment system coupled with the
power line.
5. The docking station of claim 1, further comprising a power
outlet.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/556,878 filed on Jul. 24, 2012, which is a
divisional of U.S. Pat. No. 8,229,501 issued Jul. 4, 2012, which is
a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 7,493,142 issued Feb. 17,
2009, which claims priority to U.S. Pat. No. 7,155,214 issued Dec.
26, 2006. These and all other extrinsic materials discussed herein
are incorporated by reference in their entirety. Where a definition
or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or
contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the
definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition
of that term in the reference does not apply.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The field of the invention is docking stations.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Portable computers have long been used for storage and
playback/creation of music, video, still images, and other forms of
data. As used herein, "portable computers" include laptops, a
variety of portable media players (e.g., the iPod.TM. and
iPhone.TM. devices manufactured by Apple.TM., Inc.), cellular
phones, and portable video players. Portable computers are
generally used for ease of portability and to enable users to
access data files while away from home. In practice, however,
portable computers only allow outputting of data files to a single
room/zone, typically through headphones, built-in speakers and/or a
built-in display.
[0004] Portable computers can also be considered lifestyle devices,
which facilitate the convenient transportation of data from one
source/player to another, and allow local output of music, video,
and other media through associated headphones and/or built-in
monitors. In general, data is uploaded to portable computer by
connection to a data source, typically a desktop computer. Once the
data is loaded on to the portable computer, the data is downloaded
(played) through headphones. For example, the iPod.TM. has a
built-in monitor and headphone port to allow for single zone/room
audio/video distribution.
[0005] While portable computers are useful to record and play
media, these computers fail to take advantage of the portability
and other features of the computer as a source of high quality
music and video. In addition, these single-zone audio systems are
also typically characterized by computer-specific docking stations
connected to a local amplification/speaker distribution system.
[0006] The evolution of home entertainment systems has seen the
introduction of sophisticated digital signal processors, adapted to
interface with a wide range of audio/video equipment, and
controllers therefore. Such equipment includes the Sonance Model
DAB 1 audio controller/amplifier, the Sonance Navigator Harbor
switch and the Sonance Navigator K1 and K2 controllers, marketed by
Dana Innovations. Such equipment allows for selective distribution
of audio programming about a multi-zone system, with local zone
controllers operative to regulate local, remote or system wide
operation. The distribution of such controllers about the audio
system allows for distributed control of the audio system from any
zone.
[0007] A useful enhancement to contemporary audio/video systems
would be an apparatus which allows the flexibility, sophistication
and audio/video reproduction quality of multi-zone media systems to
be merged with the convenience and portability of portable
computers. In this manner, the lifestyle qualities of the portable
computer can be used to enhance the enjoyment of the multi-zone
media entertainment system. In addition, because many contemporary
portable computers have unique shapes or electrical interfaces,
there is a need in the art to interface the portable computers to
the entertainment system in order to accommodate different portable
computers, both mechanically and electrically.
[0008] Additionally, there is a need in the art to provide a device
which can readily interface with a variety of different portable
computers without the need for a computer-specific electrical
interface and control system. There is also a need for infrared
(IR) or radio frequency (RF) control systems that respond to
signals from various receiver locations to regulate operation of
the portable computer, whether disposed locally or remote from a
user and without the need for development of a unique electrical
interface or any modification of the device's circuitry.
[0009] Further, there is a need for an interface that is wall
mountable to facilitate convenient viewing of the portable computer
and facilitate access to manual controls of the portable
computer.
[0010] It is further desirable that the multi-zone entertainment
system allow for engagement to a plurality of portable computers,
whereupon audio and/or video inputs from each of the portable
computers are selectively communicated to different zones of the
multi-zone entertainment system, for simultaneous distribution of
different audio/video programming to different audio/video
zones.
[0011] The present invention is directed to achieving these and
other goals within a simple, configurable device that consumes no
table space and can be architecturally compatible with
flush-mounted in-wall/in-ceiling audio and video systems.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and
methods in which a portable computer couples to a multi-zone media
entertainment system. The system includes a multi-zone media
entertainment system controller having a media input/output
selection circuit for controlling the source and distribution of
audio and video signals. As used herein, "media" includes audio
systems, video systems, and a combination of audio and video
systems. The multi-zone system can compose a plurality of docking
stations that are shaped and configured to receive portable
computers, although it contemplated that a single docking station
could be connected to multiple zones.
[0013] A contemplated docking station facilitates connection of a
portable computer to the multi-zone media entertainment system. The
docking station could include a wall-mount configured to receive
the computer and a power connector configured to power the
computer. The wall-mount for the docking station also attaches the
docking station to a wallboard. As used herein, the term
"wallboard" should be construed broadly to mean any sort of
mechanical barrier for surfacing walls. Wallboards can be made of
any suitable material, including for example plywood, plaster,
wood, wood pulp, or gypsum. In one embodiment, the wall-mount
includes a mounting frame and a plurality of engaging members
connectable to the mounting frame for securing the docking station
in a flush mount engagement with the wallboard. The docking station
could mount to a wallboard by plugging into a power outlet in the
wall. In a preferred embodiment, the docking station includes a
power outlet.
[0014] The docking station could also have a first interface that
sends/receives data between the docking station and the portable
computer and a second interface that sends/receives data between
the docking station and the media entertainment system. As used
herein, "data" is any electronic communication that could be
transferred from a personal computer including for example, audio
files, video files, image files, database structures, tables, log
files, data streams, instructions, commands, macros, and queries.
Thus, in combination the first and second interfaces facilitate
communication of data between the portable computer and the media
entertainment system. While the first and second interfaces could
communicate to intermediary devices that are coupled to the
portable computer and the media entertainment system, the first and
second interfaces preferably communicate directly with the portable
computer and the media entertainment system.
[0015] A power connector coupled to the docking station could
provide both power and data connectivity to the portable computer,
for example by using IP over power line technology. In this manner,
less hard-wiring is needed to couple the computer to the
entertainment system. Using a power line with the dual ability to
provide power and data connectivity, a media entertainment system
plugged into a local power conduit could communicate with the
docking station over the power line.
[0016] In one embodiment, at least one of the power connector, the
first interface, and the second interface is hard-wired to at least
one of the computer and the media entertainment system. Preferably,
at least two of the power connector, the first interface, and the
second interface are hard-wired to at least one of the computer and
the media entertainment system. As used herein, "hard-wired" is
defined as a direct or indirect physical connection of two devices.
For example, hard-wired can include a direct wired connection that
connects two devices, as well as an indirect wired connection from
a first device to an intermediary device that is hard-wired to a
second device. Thus, in one aspect, a wire or other cable including
for example, an RS-232 cable can physically connect the second
interface to the media entertainment system.
[0017] In addition to hard-wiring, it is also contemplated that at
least one of the power connector, the first interface, and the
second interface can have a wireless connection to at least one of
the computer and the media entertainment system. As used herein,
"wireless" is defined to include any connection between two devices
having at least some portion lacking a "hard-wired" connection to
the other portion. For example, the power connector can have a
hard-wired connection to a power source but wirelessly transmit
current to the portable device through induction. Or the first
interface could be hard-wired to the portable computer, and the
second interface could transmit data to and from a media
entertainment system wirelessly. Any commercially suited wireless
interface could be used. Preferably, wireless connections are
programmable to receive commands from at least two different
devices, for example remote controls manufactured by competing
media system companies.
[0018] It is contemplated that any combination of hard-wired and
wireless connections can be used to connect any of the power
connector, the first interface, and the second interface to any of
the computer and the media entertainment system.
[0019] The first interface can include any commercially available
interface that facilitates the receipt of data stored within the
computer. A preferred first interface includes a proprietary
interface, for example an iPod.TM. interface or a BlackBerry.TM.
interface. As used herein, a "proprietary interface" is defined as
an interface licensed under the control of a company or other third
party. It is preferred that the first interface comprises both a
male and a mating female connector.
[0020] The second interface could include any commercially
available interface and electronics that facilitate the
communication of the data received from the computer to the media
entertainment system. Contemplated second interfaces include both
wired and wireless connections, and a wired/wireless combination.
It is also contemplated that the docking station has electronics
that allow it to communicate with the media entertainment system
over a distance of at least 5 meters. Separating the docking
station from the entertainment system by at least 5 meters is
advantageous for media entertainment systems comprising multiple
zones and components. Unless a contrary intent is apparent from the
context, all ranges recited herein are inclusive of their
endpoints, and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include
only commercially practical values.
[0021] As used herein, a portable computer can include any portable
device capable of storing and playing audio/video, and having an
output to allow connection to a first interface, as described
above. Contemplated portable computers include laptop computers,
netbooks, tablet PCs, MP3 players and other portable audio players,
personal video players, cellular phones, personal digital
assistants, and combinations thereof. The portable computer is
preferably battery-powered. It is also contemplated that the
computer has hardware and electronics capable of communicating with
a cellular network. This capability could be built-in to the
computer (e.g., a cellular phone), or added, for example with a USB
adapter or a serial connection.
[0022] In another embodiment, the docking station has a third
interface that provides additional functionality to the docking
station. For example the third interface could allow the docking
station (and any peripherals attached to the docking station
including the portable computer) to communicate with a phone
network such as a cellular or landline phone network through a
hard-wired or wireless connection. The third interface could also
include the ability to receive commands from a remote controller,
typically using an infrared or radio frequency. This is
advantageous as it allows a user to remotely control the computer
while the computer is docked within the wall-mount without
requiring the user to physically interact with the portable
computer.
[0023] In other contemplated embodiments, the docking station
includes a processor as well as built-in memory to facilitate the
processing and long-term storage of data. This allows for
additional storage capacity to be added to the system without
upgrading the portable computer itself. Preferably, the additional
processor and memory could eliminate or reduce one or more
limitations in performance of audio/video playback by the portable
computer. An entertainment system with a processor upgrade could
enhance and improve the capabilities of the portable computer, as
portable computers have a typically smaller size and thus have
smaller hardware components more limited in function and capability
than larger hardware components. In preferred embodiments, the
docking station has at least 1 GB of memory, although greater
amounts of storage are preferred.
[0024] The docking station could also have a video screen that
receives electronic signals through a hard-wired or wireless signal
(e.g., IR or RF signals) from the portable computer. For example,
the video screen could be used to display information/images. A
preferred video screen is a touch screen that sends input commands
to and from the portable computer in lieu of the portable
computer's native interface. Additionally, the video screen could
be used in communication with the media entertainment system to
regulate operation of the system and the portable computer.
[0025] The docking station could also have at least one cradle that
is sized and dimensioned to receive the portable computer within
the docking station. Preferably, two or more cradles could be
included, with each cradle configured to receive distinct
computers. The cradle could include a locking member that engages
or disengages the portable computer to the docking station to
facilitate nondestructive engagement of the portable computer to
the docking station. Thus, in the case of multiple docking stations
dispersed within a multi-zone system, a plurality of different
portable computers could be utilized, with each engaged to a
separate docking station.
[0026] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the
inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the
following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with
the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like
components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a docking station;
[0028] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a docking station;
[0029] FIG. 3 is a front view of a docking station housing a
portable computer, with an infrared receiving module thereon;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a front view of the docking station, as
illustrated in FIG. 3, wherein the infrared receiving module is
oriented offset from center of the portable computer;
[0031] FIG. 5 is a wiring diagram illustrating connection of the
docking station within a multi-zone audio system;
[0032] FIG. 6 is a wiring diagram illustrating connection of the
docking station to an alternate implementation of a multi-zone
audio/video system;
[0033] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a portable computer adaptor for
interfacing the portable computers to the docking station;
[0034] FIG. 8 is an illustration of an alternate portable computer
adapter; and
[0035] FIGS. 9a, b and c are front, sectional and perspective
views, respectively, of an alternate docking station, having a
portable computer releasing lever formed on the front surface
thereof.
[0036] FIG. 10a is a perspective view of a wall-mounted docking
station and a portable computer uncoupled from one another.
[0037] FIG. 10b is a perspective view of the wall-mounted docking
station of FIG. 10a uncoupled from the wallboard.
[0038] FIGS. 11a-11c are front perspective, front planar, and rear
perspective views of an alternate docking station.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The drawings shown herein are for the purposes of
illustrating the preferred embodiments of the present invention and
are not meant to limit in any respect the various aspects of the
present invention described in this specification.
[0040] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate front and rear perspective views,
respectively, of an embodiment of a docking station 10. Referring
to FIG. 1, the docking station 10 can receive and engage a portable
computer including for example, portable computer 20 illustrated in
FIG. 3. The docking station 10 includes a mounting frame 11
composed to define a dock receiving well 13, into which the
portable computer can be inserted. The mounting frame 11 further
defines interior side walls 15 and back wall 17. A back plate 19 is
disposed against the back wall 17, which could optionally be a
decorative plate, or support a transmitter and receiver or
transceiver 21. Transceiver 21 functions to transmit/receive
signals to and from the portable computer, respectively, whether
the portable computer is located in or away from docking station
10. As shown in FIG. 2, a transceiver 21a could alternatively be
formed on a rear surface of the docking station. Transceiver 21,
21a can implement contemporary wireless protocols including for
example, 802.11 and Bluetooth, to wirelessly communicate data with
a portable computer.
[0041] The docking station 10 further comprises a plurality of
rotatable/translatable engaging members 23 which are connected to
the mounting frame 11 by fasteners 25. The engaging members, or
"dawgs" 23, can be rotated to extend outwardly from the mounting
frame 11, and can be translated towards the mounting frame by
rotation of fasteners 25. Thus, the engaging members can be brought
closer to the mounting frame to capture an intervening wall
surface, which secures the docking station against the wall
surface.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, the docking station 10 includes a
cradle 27 which composes a dock engaging well 29. The dock engaging
well is preferably sized and configured to receive and support a
portable computer. Preferably, cradle 27 is replaceable with
differently sized cradles to conform to the particular portable
computer to be inserted.
[0043] A first interface 31 is disposed within the dock engaging
well 29, and operative to electrically engage a mating connector on
the portable computer. Engagement of the first interface 31 to the
portable computer defines an electrical interface connection
between the docking station 10 and the portable computer, whereby
data can be communicated with the portable computer when it is
disposed within docking station 10.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, exemplary electrical connections to the
first interface 31 are shown. In the presently preferred
embodiment, electrical connections to the first interface 31
include analog audio connector 33 and power/data connector 35.
Analog audio connector 33 operates to port analog output signals
from the portable computer to the media entertainment system. In
the preferred embodiment, power/data connector 35 ports power to
the portable computer and communicates data from the portable
computer. Connectors 33 and 35 are in electrical communication with
the first interface 31, shown in FIG. 1.
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of docking station 10,
within which a portable computer 20 is disposed. The portable
computer 20 includes an infrared receiving module 30, which is
mounted upon and electrically engaged to the portable computer 20.
As noted above, different portable computers can have different
sizes, shapes, and electrical connectors. The docking station 10
comprises engaging members 37, which facilitate receiving and
engaging back plate 39 within the docking station.
[0046] FIG. 4 illustrates the docking station 10 being used with a
different portable computer 20a. The structure of portable computer
20a requires the infrared receiving module 30 to be mounted at a
different location. Moreover, because cradle 27 defines a dock
engaging well 29 larger than the portable computer 20a, cradle 27
can be replaced with an alternate cradle (not shown) that conforms
to portable computer 20a.
[0047] When the portable computer 20 having IR receiver module 30
or a RF receiver (not shown) is disposed within the docking station
10, the portable computer can be commanded by wireless signals
communicated from transceiver 21 or 21a to control the portable
computer. As explained below, such configuration allows control of
the portable computer without the need for deriving electrical
interface protocols for each computer used with the docking
station. Infrared module 30 can be implemented as a component of a
commercially available IR controller (e.g., the NaviPod.TM. IR
remote marketed by Apple.TM., Inc., which includes the infrared
receive module 30 and a handheld transmitter). The handheld
transmitter can be directed towards the transceiver 21 or 21a to
input infrared commands that operate the portable computer. Those
commands could be learned by any media system controller of any
suitable type, for example the Sonance DAB 1 media system
controller. Consequently, when a user desires to regulate the
operation of the portable computer (e.g., to change songs), the
media system controller can be directed to generate an appropriate
command which is communicated to transceiver 21 or 21a and
wirelessly broadcast to the infrared module 30, which in turn
communicates the appropriate command to the portable computer.
[0048] The infrared commands can similarly be learned by and
communicated to a media system controller by in-wall controllers,
for example the Sonance K2 controller, which includes an infrared
receiver and manual input circuit, both of which communicate to the
media system controller to direct the media system controller to
generate appropriate commands. Those commands could then be
communicated to the transceiver 21, 21a to regulate the operation
of the portable computer 20, via transmission to the infrared
receiving module 30.
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary wiring arrangement for
integrating the portable computer within connecting dock 10 within
a multi-zone entertainment system 100. As shown at FIG. 5, the
media system controller 40 supports a plurality of audio zones,
e.g. six zones. The controller 40 selectively distributes audio
output to audio speakers (e.g., in-wall or in-ceiling speakers)
disposed in any or all of the zones. Moreover, each zone is shown
to include a keypad controller, which can be implemented as, for
example, Sonance Navigator K1 controllers or Sonance Navigator K2
controllers marketed by Dana Innovations. Each of the controllers
includes a keypad for inputting commands to regulate the operation
of the media system controller 40. The K2 in-wall controllers shown
in zones 2, 4 and 5 can further include a display and/or receiver
(e.g., IR, RF or FM) operative to receive commands, such as from a
handheld having a receiving/learning circuit therein. The user can
therefore regulate the operation of the portable computer and the
distribution of music to any or all zones, by operation of a
portable transmitter used in the vicinity of any in-wall controller
having an IR, RF or FM receiving circuit. As such, a user can place
a portable computer within one of a plurality of docking stations,
distributed about a multi-zone audio system, and be able to control
music played by the portable computer from any room/zone by either
manually operating any accessible keypad, or directing a
transmitter towards a receiving keypad or dedicated receiver from
any zone within the system.
[0050] As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, command
sets communicated to the portable computer by infrared transmission
can be limited to a small group of commands. More refined control
of the portable computer can be affected by manually operating the
portable computer as it is disposed within the connecting dock, or
by learning more detailed electrical for communication to the
portable computer via the first interface 31 (see FIG. 1). However,
for many purposes the infrared command set can be sufficient for
regulating operation of the portable computer, while avoiding
complexities associated with deriving device specific electrical
protocols.
[0051] Where more sophisticated regulation or operation is desired
appropriate electrical protocols can be derived for two-way
electrical communication between the portable computer and the
media system controller 40 and/or personal computer 50.
[0052] Personal computer 50 functions to receive and store music or
other files from the portable computer 20, or to port media or
files to the portable computer 20. The personal computer 50 can
also be used to port commands or an instruction set to the portable
computer 20 for storage within flash memory. The instruction set
functions to facilitate communication between the portable computer
20 and either the personal computer 50 or the media system
controller 40.
[0053] The personal computer 50 can also communicate electrical or
infrared commands or control signals to the media system controller
40. In the case of digital control signals, such signals can be
communicated to an RS 232 input of the media system controller 40.
Infrared command signals can be communicated to an infrared input
port of the media system controller. Analog output signals from the
personal computer 50 could be ported from the personal computer
headphone jack to an appropriate audio source input to the media
system controller 40.
[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates wiring arrangement for an alternate
implementation of the multi-zone entertainment system 100a, useful
to support audio and video sources/outputs. As shown therein the
system controller is implemented to incorporate a separate
switching device 60, which is connected to an amplifier 65. In a
preferred embodiment, the switching device 60 could be implemented
as the Sonance Navigator Harbor, and the amplifier 65 could be
implemented as the Sonance Model 1230 amplifier. Some of the zones
are also shown to include video devices, see zones 1, 2 and 5. Some
zones can further include a separate IR receiver (see zones 1, 2
and 6, for example). The remaining portions of the multi-zone
entertainment system 100a operate in substantially the same manner
as described in connection with the entertainment system 100
illustrated at FIG. 5.
[0055] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate adapter brackets that can be used
to facilitate engagement of the portable computer to the docking
station. As noted above, in some case particular portable computers
can be formed to have electrical interfaces disposed at different
locations, such as along the side edge of the device. In those
cases an adapter is useful to facilitate interface of a model
specific portable computer to the docking station. Moreover, even
where the portable computer incorporates a conveniently located
electrical interface, an adapter bracket can be useful to
facilitate engagement of the portable computer to the docking
station, without stressing the electrical connector port of the
portable computer upon repeated engagement to the connecting dock.
The adapters are directed to providing such additional advantages
to the docking station and the entertainment system described
above.
[0056] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an adapter bracket 70 formed
to receive a portable computer, and to facilitate engagement of the
portable computer to the docking station 10. Bracket 70
incorporates an adapter back wall 71 and a translating receiving
bracket 73. The bracket 73 is connected to a translating member or
hinge 75, such that the bracket 73 is rotatable from the closed
position (shown) to an open position wherein greater space is
available to insert the portable computer into the bracket. The
bracket incorporates a connector 77, translatable with the bracket
73, for electrically engaging to the portable computer. Connector
77 in turn is connected to connector 79, which is formed on bracket
lower surface 81. Connector 79 in turn is engageable to the first
interface 31, shown at FIG. 1.
[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates an alternate adapter bracket 80, formed
to accommodate portable computers having electrical interfaces
formed on a side surface thereof. As shown in FIG. 8 connector 83
is arranged for electrical connection with such a portable
computer. Connector 83 is translatable within channel 85 in order
to accommodate portable computers having side facing electrical
interfaces, arranged at different vertical locations on the side
surface of the portable computer. Connector 83 is further connected
to connector 87, which in turn is engageable to the first interface
31, also shown at FIG. 1. As with the adapter bracket shown in FIG.
7, adapter bracket 80 includes a translating receiving bracket 89,
pivotally engaged to an adapter back wall 91 via a translating
member or hinge 93.
[0058] Accordingly, the adapter brackets shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 can
receive different types of portable computers, whereby a range of
portable computers can be mechanically and electrically engaged to
the adapter bracket for convenient interface to the docking station
10.
[0059] FIGS. 9a, 9b and 9c illustrate another enhancement of the
docking station. As shown therein the docking station 95
incorporates a lever 101 disposed on the front surface 103. The
lever 101 is manually translatable to urge the portable computer,
when disposed within the docking station 95, upward and outward to
facilitate removal of the portable computer from the docking
station 95. More particularly, vertical translation of the lever
101 urges flange 105 upward against the portable computer, and
urges the portable computer into contact with directing member 107.
The directing member 107 is formed to urge an upward translating
portable computer to be directed out of docking station 95, where
it is more conveniently grasped by a user and removed from the
docking station.
[0060] Translation of lever 101 further functions to disengage the
electrical connection between the portable computer and the back
connection port without the need for manually docking the portable
computer or other motions that can contribute to deterioration of
the dock connecting port or the electrical interface of the
portable computer.
[0061] FIGS. 10a-10b illustrate an exemplary wall-mountable docking
station 200 comprising a wall-mount 201, a first interface 205, and
a second interface 203.
[0062] Docking station 200 has a cradle 209 defining a cavity sized
and dimensioned to receive a portable computer 211. It is
contemplated that differently sized and dimensioned cradles can be
interchanged with cradle 209 to receive portable computers having
different dimensions than that of portable computer 211. Docking
station 200 comprises releasable couplings 213 that engage the
portable computer and securely attach it to the docking station.
Any suitable commercially available fasteners are contemplated
including for example, hook-shaped projections 213 that conform to
receiving wells 215 on the portable computer. Preferably, the
releasable couplings mate with the portable computer as the
portable computer is placed within the cradle. In other
contemplated embodiments, docking station can have spring-loaded
tabs (not shown) that partially or fully cover the cavity when the
portable computer is placed within the cradle, thereby securing the
portable computer within the docking station. In further
contemplated embodiments, fasteners can include for example, hook
and loop fasteners, clasps, clips, snaps, magnets, belts, and any
combination thereof.
[0063] Docking station 200 also includes a processor 227 and memory
229 that cooperate to add functionality to the docking station. For
example, the docking station could store media files or a set of
initialization commands. Any suitable processor or memory could be
used with docking station 200. Preferably, the docking station
includes at least 1 GB, 2 GB, 5 GB, or 10 GB of memory of any type,
for example read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and
Flash memory. Since docking station 200 has its own processor and
memory, docking station 200 could optionally function as a media
control center without a portable computer mounted to the docking
station. Preferably, docking station 200 has a separate user
interface (not shown) from the portable computer that can be used
whether or not a portable computer is mounted to the docking
station.
[0064] Docking station 200 is mounted to the wall via wall-mount
201. Wall-mount 201 is mounted to wallboard 217 by plugging the
second interface 203 into a wall outlet 219 in the wallboard.
Wall-mount 201 could be securely fastened to the wall outlet 219 by
one or more fasteners (not shown). Contemplated fasteners include
for example, screws, nails, bolts, and those listed above in
reference to releasable couplings 213. Wall-mount 201 preferably
also have rubber or otherwise elastic "feet" (not shown) that
prevent the docking station from marking up the wallboard during
mounting. An alternate embodiment of wall-mount is shown in FIGS.
11a-11e.
[0065] First interface 205 can include any commercially available
interface including for example, USB, serial, firewire, proprietary
interfaces, and other docking station electrical connectors. While
first interface 205 comprises a male serial connector that mates
with a female serial connector 206, the type, shape, and location
of the electrical connectors can vary. First interface 205 is
disposed within docking station 200 and acts as a conduit through
which data is sent/received between portable computer 211 and
docking station 200. While first interface 205 is preferably an
electrical connector disposed within the cradle, the first
interface could also be disposed on an exterior wall of the docking
station or coupled to the docking station via a hard-wired or
wireless connection. As shown in FIG. 10b, first interface 205 is
directly hard-wired to second interface 203 to enable first
interface to provide power and data connections in a single
interface. Typically, both power and data is transmitted through
the first interface by allocating some serial pins towards data
transfer, and other serial pins towards power transfer.
[0066] Second interface 203 is a power connector, represented in
the drawing as a standard NEMA 1-15 connector that mates with a
standard wall outlet 219. While second interface 203 is a standard
plug having two blades 203A and preferably a cylindrical pin 203B,
second interface 203 could include any male or female connector or
wire, for example two cylindrical pins, three cylindrical pins,
three blades, and any other plug design to allow the power
connector to be coupled with a wall outlet. Second interface 203
provides both power to portable computer 211 and electronics (not
shown) that allow data to be communicated over the power line
221.
[0067] While second interface is preferably a power connector that
transmits both power and data to the portable computer, second
interface 203 could also include any commercially available
interface and electronics that facilitates sending/receiving data
between the portable computer 211 and the media entertainment
system (not shown). For example, the second interface could include
an Ethernet connection, an IP over power line connection, and other
wired connections, as well as WIFI, Bluetooth, and other wireless
connections. While second interface 203 is disposed within the
docking station 200, it is contemplated that the second interface
be disposed outside of the docking station or coupled to the
docking station via a hard-wired or wireless connection.
Preferably, the second interface is set up to allow the docking
station 200 to communicate with the media entertainment system (not
shown) over a distance of at least 5 meters.
[0068] Portable computer 211 includes a battery 223 that can be
charged by the second interface 203. It is also contemplated that
portable computer 211 has electronics 225 to facilitate
communication with a cellular network, which is then linked to the
second interface. For example, the portable computer could be a
cellular phone that, when mounted to the docking station, connects
an entire house to the cellular phone. A user could then make and
receive cell phone calls by using a land line that connects to the
cellular phone. In an exemplary embodiment, the docking station is
coupled to a cellular phone signal booster. While FIG. 10a
illustrates the electronics as disposed within the portable
computer 211, the electronics can be externally coupled with the
portable computer such as through USB or Serial connections (not
shown).
[0069] Since docking station 200 plugs directly into and thus
blocks wall outlet 219, docking station 200 preferably has a power
outlet 204 that allows other devices to serially receive power
along with docking station 200. Preferably, power outlet 204 is
attached to a fuse or other surge protecting device to prevent
other devices that plug into power outlet 204 from being damaged in
the event of a surge. While power outlet 204 is shown as a NEMA
1-15 female connector on the side of docking station 200, power
outlet 204 could be any other type of power connector without
departing from the scope of the current invention.
[0070] FIGS. 11a-11e illustrate an alternative docking station. As
shown in FIGS. 11a-11e, a flush-mounted docking station 300 is
mounted within a panel 306 for coupling a portable computer 301 to
an entertainment system (not shown). Docking station 300 includes a
wall-mount 303 configured to receive the portable computer. Docking
station 300 also includes a power connector 305 that provides power
to the portable computer and a second interface 308 that provides a
data connection between the portable computer and the entertainment
system (not shown). Alternatively, portable computer 301 could
receive power from a standard power outlet 313 placed within
docking station 300.
[0071] Docking station 300 comprises a mounting panel 306 and a
recessed portion 304 for mounting the docking station 300 in flush
engagement with a wall-board (not shown). The recessed portion 304
is inserted within the wall-board until the mounting panel 306 is
in flush with the wall-board. This is advantageous as it allows the
docking station 300 to appear to be "built-in" to the wall-board,
and thus eliminates unsightly protrusions, etc.
[0072] Docking station 300 further comprises a wireless interface
307 that receives commands. Any commercially suited wireless
interface can be used including those described above in reference
to first interface 205. Preferably, the wireless interface is
programmable to receive commands from different media controllers.
For example, a user could program the docking station to receive
commands from a television remote, a universal remote, and a stereo
remote control. The control commands sent to the docking station
could be processed by the docking station, or could be forwarded to
the attached media systems or the portable computer.
[0073] Docking station 300 could also include a third interface 309
that provides additional functionality to portable computer 301.
For example, the third interface 309 could functionally couple a
processor (not shown) in the docking station with a processor (not
shown) in the portable computer to improve the processing speed of
the portable computer. The third interface could also couple the
portable computer to a phone network to allow the portable computer
to save and process audio or video conversations. Other
functionalities could be added via a third interface without
departing from the scope of the current invention.
[0074] Docking station 300 also includes a video screen 311 that
can send and receive electronic signals from a portable computer
301 and display information. Any commercially available video
screens are contemplated including for example, cathode ray tubes
(CRTs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light-emitting diodes
(LEDs), and touch screens. Video screen 311 could be of any
suitable size and shape, and preferably is sized and dimensioned to
allow a user to regulate operation of the entertainment system (not
shown) and the portable computer 301. Preferably, video screen 311
is a touch screen that plays video data sent from the portable
computer or docking station and also sends commands sent from the
touch screen to the portable computer, docking station, or other
remote media entertainment systems.
[0075] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many
more modifications besides those already described are possible
without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive
subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the
spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the
specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in
the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In
particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be
interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a
non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements,
components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with
other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly
referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one
of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . .
and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element
from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
* * * * *